Taiwan driver licenses are issued by local transportation bureaus, not a national office, and the process differs depending on whether you are a citizen, resident, or visitor

Taiwan's driver license system is run by the Transportation Bureau in each county and city — there is no single national issuing authority. Citizens and resident foreigners follow different paths. Visitors from countries with reciprocal agreements can drive on their home license for up to one year, but will need a Taiwan license if they stay longer or want to drive a scooter (which requires a separate license class). The entire process, from written test to license issuance, typically takes one to three weeks for residents who pass on their first attempt.

The license itself is valid for four years for drivers under 60, and two years for drivers 60 and older. Renewal happens at the same local bureau where you obtained your original license, and you can renew up to one year before expiration.

Key Takeaways

  • Taiwan issues driver licenses through local county and city Transportation Bureaus, not a central national office, so you must visit the bureau in the district where you live or work.
  • Citizens need a national ID card and proof of residence; foreign residents need a valid passport, Alien Resident Certificate (ARC), and proof of residence at a Taiwan address.
  • You must pass a written test in Chinese, English, or Vietnamese (depending on the bureau), and a practical driving test before the license is issued.
  • Licenses are valid for four years (two years if you are 60 or older) and can be renewed up to one year before they expire at any Transportation Bureau.
  • Visitors from countries with reciprocal agreements can drive on their home license for up to one year; after that, they must obtain a Taiwan license or stop driving.

What documents you need as a Taiwan citizen

If you are a Taiwan citizen, bring your national ID card (身分證), a proof of residence document dated within the last three months, and a completed process form (available at the Transportation Bureau or online). The proof of residence can be a utility bill, lease agreement, or household registration document. You will also need a passport-sized photo (4 by 6 centimeters) and the fee, which varies by county but is typically between 200 and 250 Taiwan dollars.

Some bureaus accept online pre-registration, which lets you book a test date in advance and skip some of the waiting time on the day you visit. Check your local bureau's website to see if this option is available.

What documents you need as a foreign resident

Foreign residents must hold a valid Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) or Resident Certificate (RC) issued by the National Immigration Agency. Bring your passport, the ARC or RC, proof of residence in Taiwan dated within the last three months, a completed process form, a passport-sized photo, and the fee. The proof of residence works the same way as for citizens — a utility bill, lease, or household registration document all count.

If you do not yet have an ARC or RC, you cannot obtain a driver license until you register with the National Immigration Agency. The process for obtaining an ARC depends on your visa type and reason for staying in Taiwan; contact the immigration office in your district for guidance on that separate process.

The written test and what to expect

The written test covers traffic rules, road signs, and safe driving practices. Most Transportation Bureaus offer the test in Chinese, English, or Vietnamese; a few larger cities may offer additional languages. You will answer 100 multiple-choice questions on a computer, and you need a score of at least 60 to pass. The test takes about 30 minutes.

Study materials are available free on the Transportation Bureau websites and through the Taiwan Road Safety Council. Many people study using the official question bank, which contains all possible test questions. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day or schedule another appointment; there is no limit on attempts, though each retake costs the same fee.

The practical driving test and road requirements

After you pass the written test, you schedule a practical driving test, usually within one to two weeks. The test takes place on a closed course at the Transportation Bureau and lasts about 10 to 15 minutes. You will be asked to perform basic maneuvers: starting the car, turning, reversing, parking, and stopping. The examiner watches for smooth control, proper use of signals, and awareness of the course boundaries.

You must bring the same documents you brought for the written test, plus proof that you have passed the written exam (the bureau gives you this after you pass). If you fail the practical test, you can retake it after paying the fee again. Most people pass on the second or third attempt.

Scooter and motorcycle license classes

Taiwan requires a separate license to ride a scooter (50cc or less) or motorcycle (over 50cc). The scooter license (小型輕型機車) is the easiest to obtain and requires only a written test — no practical test. The motorcycle license (普通重型機車) requires both a written test and a practical test on a motorcycle course, which is more demanding than the car practical test.

If you already hold a car license, you can add a scooter or motorcycle endorsement without retaking the written test for basic traffic rules. You will take a shorter written test specific to two-wheeled vehicles, then a practical test if required. Many people obtain the scooter license first because it is faster and cheaper, then upgrade to a motorcycle license later.

Renewing your license before it expires

You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. Bring your current license, proof of residence dated within the last three months, a passport-sized photo, and the renewal fee (similar to the original issuance fee). You do not need to retake the written or practical test for a standard renewal.

If your license has already expired, you can still renew it at the Transportation Bureau, but the process is the same — no additional penalty or test is required. However, you cannot legally drive while your license is expired, so renew before the expiration date if possible. If you lose your license or it is damaged, you can request a replacement at the same bureau for a small fee.

Visitors and temporary drivers from other countries

If you are visiting Taiwan and hold a valid driver license from a country with a reciprocal agreement with Taiwan, you can drive for up to one year using your home license. Taiwan has reciprocal agreements with many countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and most European nations. You should carry your original license, an International Driving Permit (IDP) if you have one, and your passport.

If you plan to stay longer than one year, you must obtain a Taiwan driver license before your one-year window closes. The process is the same as for foreign residents, except you will need to show your passport and proof of residence instead of an ARC or RC. If you do not have an ARC or RC yet, contact the National Immigration Agency to understand your options for extending your stay legally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test in English?

Most Transportation Bureaus offer the written test in English, but availability varies by location. Larger cities like Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung always have English-language tests. Smaller towns may only offer Chinese. Contact your local bureau in advance to confirm the language options and book a test date if you need English.

What happens if I fail the practical driving test?

You can retake the practical test after paying the fee again. There is no waiting period between attempts, so you can often schedule another test within a few days. Most people pass within two or three attempts. If you consistently struggle, some driving schools offer paid practice sessions on the actual test course.

Do I need to take a medical exam to get a driver license in Taiwan?

A standard medical exam is not required for first-time issuance. However, if you are 60 or older, or if you have certain medical conditions, the Transportation Bureau may request a health certificate from a doctor. Renewal at age 60 and beyond may also require a medical exam depending on your county's rules.

Can I drive a scooter with just a car license?

No. Taiwan requires a separate scooter license (小型輕型機車) to legally ride a scooter, even a 50cc model. Driving without the correct license class can result in fines and liability issues if you are in an accident. The scooter license is quick to obtain — usually just a written test with no practical component.

How long does the entire process take from start to finish?

If you pass both the written and practical tests on your first attempt, the process typically takes one to three weeks from your first visit to the Transportation Bureau. This includes time between scheduling the practical test and taking it. If you need to retake either test, add one to two weeks for each additional attempt.